Senator Tommy Tuberville (R) is projected to square off against former Senator Doug Jones (D) in Alabama’s gubernatorial election this November, according to Decision Desk HQ. The matchup marks a rematch of their 2020 Senate contest, which Tuberville won by a 20-point margin.
Jones first captured national attention in 2017 when he defeated Republican Roy Moore in a special Senate election, a race that was overshadowed by allegations of sexual misconduct against Moore. However, Jones lost his bid for a full term to Tuberville in 2020.
This time, the two are competing to replace term-limited Republican Governor Kay Ivey, who has held the office since 2017. Alabama’s governorship has been in GOP hands for over two decades, but Jones is viewed as a formidable candidate in a deeply conservative state.
The Cook Political Report rates the race as “Solid Republican,” but notes that Jones is “quite possibly the only Alabama Democrat with a prayer of competing statewide.” His moderate stance and name recognition could give Democrats a rare chance in a state where Republicans dominate.
Tuberville’s gubernatorial bid has already set off a scramble to fill his Senate seat. The Alabama Senate primary is underway, with candidates like Barry More leading the GOP field to replace him, as reported in our coverage of the Senate primary.
The race has drawn national interest, with both campaigns expected to spend heavily on advertising and ground operations. Tuberville, a former college football coach, has leaned into his outsider persona, while Jones is emphasizing his bipartisan record.
Alabama’s political landscape remains heavily tilted toward Republicans, but the Jones-Tuberville rematch adds an element of unpredictability. Voters will also weigh in on other key races, as detailed in our live updates from Alabama House primaries.
As the general election approaches, both candidates are expected to focus on economic issues, healthcare, and education. Jones has criticized Tuberville’s alignment with far-right factions, while Tuberville has painted Jones as out of step with Alabama values.
The outcome could have implications beyond the state, as a Jones win would signal a shift in Southern politics, while a Tuberville victory would reinforce GOP dominance. For now, all eyes are on the fall showdown.
